The opposition MDP on Thursday accused the ruling PNC of having access to the Election Commission (EC) portal used for submitting candidacy forms for the upcoming local council elections.
Speaking at a press conference, MDP National Assembly Member Hussain Hassan claimed that “certain things” were happening within the EC in relation to the election process. He alleged that the PNC was receiving information in real time whenever independent candidates sought supporter endorsements through eFaas.
“This means the PNC has access to the election portal. We are sure of that because some candidates and members of the public have shared these incidents,” Hussain said.
As an example, he alleged that the PNC had obtained information about individuals who endorsed an independent candidate in Villingili. He said the matter would be reported to the relevant authorities, adding that it showed the EC was “facilitating” the ruling party.
މިޕާޓީއިން ބާއްވާ ނޫސްވެރިންގެ ބައްދަލުވުން ކުރިއަށްދަނީ https://t.co/hfGUsfB4Lb
— MDP Secretariat (@MDPSecretariat) January 22, 2026
Hussain further linked the issue to what he described as a meeting held between EC President Ahmed Zahid and officials at the Presidential Office. He claimed that “secret meetings” were once again being held ahead of the election.
He warned that the MDP would strongly oppose any attempt by the EC to influence the election by sharing information with the PNC, saying the party would take all necessary steps to protect its candidates.
The allegations come as the EC reiterates that independent candidates must secure the support of at least 50 constituents. The commission says voters can log into its portal to decide whether to endorse a candidate.
The deadline for submitting nominations is 15:30 on January 1.